“Take the initiative, be forward, contribute to daily diary discussions and nominate yourself for assignments.” That’s the advice of CPUT graduate and current Deputy Political Editor of the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC), Mahlatse Gallens. She was speaking to hundreds of Journalism students who came to hear the renowned broadcaster at a talk organised by the Vice-Chancellor’s office and the Alumni office.

In her talk, Gallens placed particular emphasis on how interns should put their best foot forward when arriving at a new workplace.

“Don’t sit back and expect to be spoon-fed,” she says. “Instead, join in the discussions about finding new angles and ideas when researching a story. As the lifeblood of journalism is staying current and up-to-the-minute, always meet your deadlines and always arrive on time.”

Gallens also spoke of how one of the mandates of the SABC is to preserve all the mother tongues of South Africa, a fact that younger reporters should bear in mind. The SABC in particular will seek out those who can speak two or more languages fluently in order to report across the spectrum of radio and television channels of the national broadcaster.

Alumni Officer Valerie Deelman says, “By connecting a high-flying alumnus like Ms Gallens with current students, they learn more about achieving their long term dreams and what it takes to make it in the working world. These talks also motivate current students to “stay the course”, excel academically and graduate within the required time.”

Any alumni who can engender a sense of hope, energy and empowerment to a student audience are welcome to contact the Alumni Office on 021 460 3786 to set up future talks.

Written by Janyce Weintrob

Tel: +27 21 460 3514
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Registrar and Convocation Secretary, Mr Nikile Ntsababa, is calling on current and former staff and alumni to make a strong showing at the Annual General Meeting of Convocation, to be held this Saturday 19^th September.

An alliance of the Vice-Chancellor, Deputy Vice-Chancellors, the Registrar, permanent academic staff, professor emeriti and alumni, Convocation plays an important guardianship role for the university. Members of Convocation are beholden to honour the University’s traditions, remain connected and committed to CPUT’s future, and discuss opinions on any matter relating to the University.

At the upcoming AGM, a draft constitution presented to convocates in June will be formally adopted and acting chair of Convocation, Vice Chancellor Dr Prins Nevhutalu, will stand down as a new chair is elected.

The constituting of Convocation is yet another first for the university as it celebrates its tenth birthday. It is an initiative of the office of Registrar, Mr Nikile Ntsababa.

“Now that this body is up and running, we urge all those eligible to support us as we prepare to adopt a formal constitution. Those who may also attend include graduates of the heritage institutions, Peninsula Technikon and Cape Technikon, as well as retired academic staff permanently employed continuously for 10 years immediately prior to retirement.”

The AGM takes place this Saturday, 19 September 2015 at the Auditorium, Bellville campus, Symphony Way, Bellville. Registration begins from 9am and the meeting will begin at 10am and run until roughly 11.30am. All those interested in attending must please RSVP as soon as possible to Valerie Deelman on This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call +27 21 460 3786.

Written by Janyce Weintrob

Tel: +27 21 460 3514
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.